Smart DRS by Sensoneo has received the Special Jury Prize at the 2026 Cena za Průmysl 4.0 (Industry 4.0 Awards). The jury recognised the solution for promoting digital technologies in the circular economy.
Digital technologies for simpler packaging returns
Smart DRS combines automation, digital packaging identification and intelligent technologies to make packaging returns easier for consumers and operators. The solution supports the collection of both single-use beverage containers and reusable packaging, including reusable cups.
The award highlights how digital technologies can support the circular economy by simplifying collection and helping packaging return to circulation.
Automated returns in practice
Smart DRS can be adapted to different deposit and return schemes from festivals and stadiums to retail stores and public collection points.
Depending on the deployment, the solution can use AI-based packaging recognition, unique identification codes and various deposit refund methods, including refunds directly to a payment card.
About the Industry 4.0 Awards
Cena za Průmysl 4.0 is a Czech-Slovak competition jointly organised by the Confederation of Industry of the Czech Republic and the Slovak Alliance for Innovative Economy (SAPIE). It recognises projects using modern digital technologies, automation, robotics and other elements of Industry 4.0.
Thirty projects from Czech and Slovak companies entered the 2026 competition. SMART DRS by Sensoneo received the Special Jury Prize.
Read more about the results on the organisers’ website.
